Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"What a Writer" by Charles Bukowski serves as both a homage to E.E. Cummings and a critique of the literary imitation that often follows groundbreaking work. Bukowski admires Cummings for his revolutionary approach to poetry, his ability to deviate from the sanctified traditions of literature, and for injecting a much-needed vitality into the art form. Cummings, known for his unconventional use of syntax, punctuation, and form, is celebrated here for his originality and his daring to challenge the status quo of poetry.

Bukowski highlights Cummings' significance by contrasting his innovative style with the "old tired manner" of traditional poetry. Cummings' work is portrayed as a breath of fresh air, cutting through the "dung" of worn-out poetic conventions and providing a new lens through which to view the written word. This act of breaking away and gambling with form and content is seen as a necessary evolution in the landscape of literature, one that reinvigorates the medium and its audience.

However, Bukowski also points out the downside of such innovation—the inevitable emergence of imitators. Following Cummings' success, many attempted to replicate his style, just as past poets had tried to emulate the likes of Keats, Shelley, Swinburne, Byron, and others. Bukowski sees this mimicry as a natural, albeit uninspired, response to groundbreaking work. While imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, it also dilutes the originality and impact of the innovator's contributions, resulting in a sea of derivatives that lack the essence and authenticity of the original.

Despite the influx of copyists, Bukowski asserts that there was, and could ever be, only one E.E. Cummings. This declaration underscores the uniqueness of Cummings' talent and vision, likening him to singular celestial bodies like "one sun" and "one moon." Through this comparison, Bukowski elevates Cummings to a universal level, suggesting that true originality and genius are rare and irreplaceable.

"What a Writer" is a succinct yet potent reflection on the nature of artistic originality, the impact of pioneering work, and the inevitability of imitation. Bukowski's appreciation for Cummings is clear, not just for his stylistic innovations, but for the courage to venture into uncharted territory. Through this poem, Bukowski reminds us of the value of authentic voice and vision in a world quick to copy and conform.

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